Golden Tate is a Must Start in Week 6

Golden Tate arrived in Detroit this year through free agency and was immediately handed the number 2 role in a pass happy offense. Last week playing alongside a hobbled Calvin Johnson, Tate racked up 8 receptions on 10 targets for 116 yards. This week, reports indicate Johnson may be deactivated in order to nurse an ailing ankle, which immediately boosts Tate up to a high upside WR1 through volume alone, as Matt Stafford is averaging 35.8 attempts per game through 5 weeks. What makes Tate a stronger play is his matchup versus a suspect Vikings defense whose secondary graded out as a -6.7 according to Pro Football Focus. Perhaps even more significant, Minnesota’s pass rush graded out as a -6.0 which should give Matt Stafford plenty of time to throw. If by some reason Tate is still on your bench or waiver wire, this week would be a strong time to play him, otherwise he is a strong candidate to play in one week re-draft leagues.

Downside:
If Johnson is deactivated, Tate clearly becomes the #1 in Detroit which could pose problems if they decide to double him. While Minnesota’s starting corners leave quite a bit to be desired, Free Safety Harrison Smith has been completely rejuvenated in Mike Zimmer’s new defensive scheme, grading out with a +6.5 in PFF’s system. On the other hand, Smith did not practice on Tuesday and was seen a walking boot, which could boost Tate’s value even more so.